Discover the power of connection and step into your next chapter at the Breaking Barriers Summit on Friday, May 1, 2026. Join a dynamic community of Asian professionals navigating AI, career shifts, layoffs, and new opportunities — while breaking cultural norms around visibility, confidence, and “waiting to be noticed.” Experience a full day of real conversations, inspiring leaders, and practical insights designed to help you grow your network, build momentum, and move forward with clarity and confidence.

This summit is more than an event — it’s a movement. Join a transformative day of real conversations, meaningful connections, and community-driven learning from people breaking in, pushing through challenges, and forging their own paths.

Your registration includes a full day of programming with breakfast, lunch, professional headshots, and insights from industry leaders. Participate in sessions on branding, mental health, and life design, and get personalized resume and portfolio feedback in our career corner.

Come help break barriers, share stories, and build a more inclusive, empowered future. This isn’t just attendance — it’s participation in shaping what comes next.!

Our Incredible Speakers

Keynote: Grace Kao

CMO of Snap Inc.

Michele Ching

VP of Revenue and Transformation at Sightly

Frank Lee

Global Head of Industry, Independent Agencies at Snap Inc.

Christina Lu

Head of Strategy and Insights at Crossmedia

Laura Lee

Founder and CEO at LL Consulting

Asha Shivaji

CEO & Co-Founder SeeMe Index

Senna Bayasgalan

CMO at b1BANK

Lisa Bull

Partner & CMO at YOBO Spirits

Bernice Chao

Head of Global Creative at Petlibro and Founder Asians in Advertising

We Love Our Sponsors

Great News - AIA has 501(c)3 status, another huge step in our vision to create positive and lasting change for AANHPI professionals at every level. Learn more

title sponsor

Join us for a morning of networking over coffee and breakfast provided by Snap. Start your day connecting with fellow attendees in a lively and interactive setting.
Opening:
Bernice Chao, Founder of Asians in Advertising and Head of Global Creative at Petlibro
Title Sponsor Remarks:
Frank Lee, Global Head of Industry, Independent Agencies at Snap
Keynote:
Grace Kao, CMO of Snap
AI, layoffs, and new roles are reshaping our field — learn how to stay relevant, adaptable, and in demand as the industry evolves.
Speakers: TBD
Food generously provided by Snap and tabling by community partners
Join casual, free-form conversations centered around a variety of topics. This is a great opportunity to share ideas, connect over shared interests, and network in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Breaking cultural conditioning around humility, self-promotion, and “waiting to be noticed.”
Moderator: TBD
Gain actionable strategies to recognize, embrace, and communicate your true value in the workplace. This panel will empower you to confidently advocate for yourself, master negotiation, and unlock your full potential.
Speakers: TBD
Asians in Advertising Annual Awards, honoring eight exceptional individuals who exemplify excellence, innovation, and impact in the advertising industry. These awards celebrate trailblazers, changemakers, and unsung heroes driving creativity, representation, and equity for the Asian community.
Presenters: TBD
On site happy hour